Family physicians play a critical role in their patients’ lives for tobacco prevention and cessation. Increased regulation proposed today, including banning flavored cigars and halting the marketing of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) to children protects them from predatory practices that lead to increased consumption. In addition, banning the sale of flavored ENDS products that are sold in locations open to all ages protects them from health harms associated with tobacco use.

These and similar moves have the potential to impact generations to come and help ensure that the youngest members of society are safeguarded against what we know to be addictive and a deadly public health concern. The FDA must continue to help regulate an industry that is in direct conflict with public health. And we will continue to advocate for effective policies to prevent and treat tobacco and nicotine addiction.

Founded in 1947, the American Academy of Family Physicians represents 131,400 physicians and medical students nationwide, and it is the only medical society devoted solely to primary care.

Family physicians conduct approximately one in five of the total medical office visits in the United States per year – more than any other specialty. Family physicians provide comprehensive, evidence-based, and cost-effective care dedicated to improving the health of patients, families and communities. Family medicine’s cornerstone is an ongoing and personal patient-physician relationship where the family physician serves as the hub of each patient’s integrated care team. More Americans depend on family physicians than on any other medical specialty.